CHEM3580Colloids, Interfaces and Soft Matter

Course handbook

Description

This course introduces students to colloid and interface science. Key surface chemistry concepts are introduced, including the role of surface energy and adsorption of molecules at phase boundaries or interfaces. In introducing colloidal materials, emphasis is placed on the methods of their preparation and structure-property relationships. Dissolved polymers are ubiquitous in everyday formulations and thus the behaviour of polymers in solution is investigated. The self-assembly of amphiphiles into soft materials including micelles, liquid crystals and microemulsions is examined, and the relationship between these structures and formulations in which they are used is explained. The laboratory component provides training in techniques which are specific to the preparation, characterisation and simulation of dilute and concentrated surfactant and polymer solutions, and colloidal dispersions. Throughout the course, the relationship between the structure and properties of the materials and their performance in household, environmental and industrial applications will be highlighted.

Availability2024 Course Timetables

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course students will be able to:

1. Relate the structure and properties of surface active and polymer molecules, and colloidal materials to their performance and intended applications;

2. Describe the different approaches to the classification and preparation of colloidal materials and soft matter;

3. Describe the use of surface-active, soft matter and colloidal materials in household, industrial and environmental applications;

4. Demonstrate competence in the use of various procedures and instruments for the synthesis and/or characterisation of surface-active molecules, soft matter and colloidal materials;

5. Apply the scientific process in the conduct and reporting of experimental investigation;

6. Demonstrate an awareness of the safety responsibilities involved in working with chemicals and hazardous substances.

Content

Chemistry of Interfaces - surface energy, adsorption, the solid-gas interface, the solid-liquid interface, the liquid-gas interface

Colloid Chemistry - classification and preparation of colloidal materials, theory and control of colloid stability

Simulating Interfaces - atomistic molecular dynamics, course-grained models

Polymer Solutions - thermodynamics of polymer dissolution, polymer conformation and size in solution

Polymer and Colloid Characterisation - characterisation of polymer solutions and colloidal dispersions – size, shape and structural analysis

Soft Matter - surfactant self-assemblylyotropic liquid crystals, structured gels and particles, formulations and applications

Requisites

To enrol in this course students must have successfully completed CHEM2210 and CHEM2410.

Students who have completed either CHEM2410 or CHEM2210 together with CHEM2310 prior to 2022 should email Science-SELS@newcastle.edu.au to enrol in CHEM3580.

Assumed knowledge

CHEM2210 Materials ChemistryCHEM2410 Physical Chemistry

Assessment items

Tutorial / Laboratory Exercises: Laboratory Exercises and Reports
Compulsory Requirement: Pass requirement - Must pass this assessment item to pass the course.

In Term Test: In Term Tests
Compulsory Requirement: Pass requirement 40% - Must obtain 40% in this assessment item to pass the course.

Presentation: Oral Presentation

Contact hours

Semester 1 - 2024 - Callaghan

Course outline

• CHEM3580 - Semester 1, 2024 (Callaghan) (PDF, 196.4 KB)